Metro Nashville Schools Face $1M Repayment Amid Budget Updates for Fiscal Years 25 and 26

During the Tennessee Public Charter School Commission meeting on August 1, 2025, a significant discussion emerged regarding the future of student information systems (SIS) used by charter schools. The committee highlighted the ongoing evaluation of current systems, particularly PowerSchool, and the potential impact of a new Request for Proposals (RFP) from the state for student information providers.

The conversation centered on the need for feedback from schools about their user experience with PowerSchool, which has been the primary SIS for many districts. A committee member expressed interest in exploring alternative systems that might offer better communication capabilities with parents, emphasizing the importance of optimizing operational efficiency.

In addition to the SIS discussions, the meeting also covered updates on the fiscal year (FY) budgets. Director of Finance and Operations, Lawrence Walker, reported on the FY '24 true-up, revealing that charter schools in Metro Nashville would need to repay approximately $1,026,180 due to adjustments in per pupil revenue. This financial recalibration was attributed to a decrease in federal funds and local budget adjustments.

Walker also provided insights into the FY '25 budget, noting that three schools faced repayment due to declines in enrollment, with Rutherford Collegiate Prep owing a substantial $375,000. Despite these challenges, the commission projected a surplus for FY '25, with authorizer fees expected to cover over 98% of agency expenses, marking a significant step toward financial sustainability.

Looking ahead, the commission discussed an amended budget for FY '26, which includes updated revenue assumptions and requests for additional positions to support growing responsibilities. The preliminary budget for FY '27 was also presented, indicating a cautious approach to staffing and expenditures.

The discussions underscored the commission's commitment to evaluating educational tools and maintaining financial stability, setting the stage for future decisions that could impact charter schools across Tennessee.